Jèrriais version of children's classic book celebrated this weekend

ISLANDERS may not be familiar with La Carpéleuse Hardi Affanmée but they are likely to have read the original English version of the classic children’s story – The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

Tomorrow, the Jèrriais Teaching Service will be celebrating the translation at Jersey Zoo as part of the Jersey Festival of Words programme.

Taking place from 2pm to 4pm, families will be able to watch theatrical live readings of the story and attendees will each receive a free copy of the book. Themed art and crafts activities will also take place at the event in the Kirindi Cabin.

The activities are free of charge, but normal Zoo admission fees apply.

Published last year, the Jèrriais version of Eric Carle’s 1969 book joins over 60 other translated editions of the story around the world.

A dual language touring drama production of the story in Jèrriais and English is also taking place during the literary festival at ten primary schools, in partnership with Flair Entertainment.

Several other Jèrriais events are taking place during the ten-day festival this year.

Ahead of tomorrow’s event, Jèrriais teacher, Susan Parker, said she hopes the Jèrriais version of the children’s classic “will become a favourite with families who already enjoy the original English story.”

La Carpéleuse Hardi Affanmée is also available to purchase online at jerriais.sumupstore.com.

To view the full programme for the Jersey Festival of Words 2025, visit www.jerseyfestivalofwords.org.